Northern Ireland recorded 81 cases of active tuberculosis (TB) notified to the Public Health Agency in 2025. This marks a decrease from 87 cases in 2024, 78 in 2023, and 69 in 2022.

The Public Health Agency marked World TB Day on 24 March by promoting recognition of TB symptoms to prevent future cases. Dr Jillian Johnston, Consultant in Health Protection at the agency, stated that TB is a curable condition with effective treatment and that early diagnosis reduces transmission.

TB spreads through air droplets from individuals with infectious lung TB during coughing, sneezing, talking, or singing. Common symptoms include a prolonged cough, fever, and unexplained weight loss. People with these symptoms should contact their GP promptly.

Certain social risk factors increase TB vulnerability. Farmers face a slightly elevated risk from bovine TB, caused by Mycobacterium bovis, which can infect humans. Northern Ireland reported six bovine TB cases in 2025.

The Public Health Agency advises farmers on steps to lower exposure to bovine TB. The UK has committed to World Health Organization targets for TB elimination by 2035, aiming for annual reductions in incidence and transmission.

The agency collaborates with HSC Trusts and partners to boost TB awareness, diagnosis, and treatment, targeting higher-risk groups.